Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
A delightful dish of succulent chicken bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy Parmesan linguine, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter gives richness to the dish
- 2 tbsp olive oil adds a mellow fruitiness
- 4 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic touch
- Juice of 1 lemon offering bright acidity
- 1 tsp lemon zest elevating the flavor profile
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning for a blend of herbal goodness
- 1/2 tsp salt a necessary seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper adding slight heat
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) for an extra kick
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped brightening the dish
For the Pasta
- 8 oz linguine pasta, cooked al dente for a tender bite
- Parmesan cheese for serving provides a savory finish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cook the linguine in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain it and set aside, keeping some pasta water if you prefer a saucier dish later.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until golden and fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is done, add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it with the chicken and sauce until well-coated. If you prefer a saucier consistency, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and remove from heat.
- Serve hot, topped with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Keep your ingredients ready to streamline the cooking process. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.